Old Glory Lilac

Old Glory is a rounded, deciduous hybrid lilac released by the U.S. National Arboretum. It bears abundant, fragrant bluish-purple flower clusters in spring and suits larger shrub borders, hedges, and mass plantings. ## Form and size The Arboretum’s 25-year Washington trial measured Old Glory at nearly 11.5 feet tall and a little over 13 feet wide. A nursery lists a smaller 8–10 foot height and spread, so allow generous room and expect mature size to vary with site and climate. The [USDA cultivar account](https://www.ars.usda.gov/northeast-area/washington-dc/national-arboretum/docs/two-new-lilacs-from-the-us-national-arboretum/) describes its rounded form and abundant bluish-purple flowers; a [nursery listing](https://www.shepherdssupply.com/product-page/old-glory-lilac-syringa-x-old-glory) gives full-sun exposure and spring bloom. ## Landscape use Plant it as a background shrub, deciduous hedge, or large-area mass planting where the eventual spread will not crowd paths or smaller shrubs. ## Maintenance If shaping is needed, prune after flowering so the next season’s buds can develop. Remove dead or damaged branches and leave room for the natural rounded crown.